Iran may switch to 'offensive' to protect its interests

Iran may switch from its defensive policy to 'offensive' tactics if its national interests come under threat, Chief of General Staff of Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Bagheri said.

"We have no intention of attacking any country, but our defense strategy is to protect the independence, territorial integrity and national interests of our country," Tasnim cited Iran’s military chief of staff as saying.

He explained that the country’s defense policy does not mean a purely defensive and passive approach during tactical operations, adding that "if there is any intention of attack against our interests, and we see evidence of it, we will not remain passive and allow the country’s security and peace to be endangered."

"That is why our military drills this year in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, or even on land or in the air, have had a change in their nature, and we will continue this trend until our armed forces are fully ready to make the switch in tactics if necessary," Bagheri concluded.